Alternatives to Photoshop

Ever wanted to create your own graphics online without all the hassle of having to pay for those expensive programs such as Photoshop (PS)? Sure, PS is arguably the best program in its niche and provides outstanding results for those looking to create art online. However, the program costs close to an unprecedented $700 and, in my opinion, is not at all worth the price – especially when there are great alternatives available for much less, and even for free! In this article, I’ll list three programs that deliver outstanding results and performance for their prices, and show you why they, as opposed to Photoshop, should be on your desktop. Please take note that, before you read this article, these are my own personal opinions and before you decide to download any program, you should have a good idea if it’s indeed what you’re looking for. Without further ado, we’ll begin with my number three pick:

Number Three:Krita

Krita has entered the spotlight recently due to its ease of use. It’s nowhere near as powerful as Photoshop, but it does have the resources to make a professional image out of nothing. As a matter of fact, it does have some tools not found in Photoshop and is always worth the look. More than the other two options, this program relies heavily on the nature of the user – it’s a “like or hate” issue with Krita, so you might need to take a test-run before you make your final decision. No one can actually tell you if it’s good or bad…check it out!

Paint.NET was originally designed to overtake the default Microsoft Paint application in windows. However, for unknown reasons, it hasn’t been adapted by the Windows corporation – and it’s a real shame. It’s interface is extremely user-friendly and easy to operate. It has powerful tools and a smooth layer system that rivals the best of image manipulation programs. It’s still early in its stages, but there are countless add-ons available for Paint.NET, and soon enough, there isn’t a doubt in my mind that it can be on par with Photoshop.

GIMP is by far the closest to Photoshop in both potential and overall performance. It has many of the same features that Photoshop provides, save for just a couple filters. However, it does have an extremely intuitive interface complete with floating windows and customizable interfaces. Some complaint about the difficulty of operation, but at the same time many compliment it on its ease. I recommend GIMP for its strength and personalization – a great open source software indeed.

Hopefully, after testing each alternative, you’ll find a useful program that can deliver the wanted results without burning a hole in your wallet. If you’re looking to spend those seven hundred dollars on something much more beneficial for you and your family, then GIMP, Paint.NET, or Krita just might hold your answer. If you’ve got any questions about either of the programs listed here in this article, don’t hesitate to contact me.